Leadership in the NHS: What can the Department of Health learn from Gerry Robinson – the programme?

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine Gerry Robinson's television series and what lessons the Department of Health might learn from it.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the recent TV series and draws conclusions from it.

Findings

It is apparent that more might well be achieved by NHS managers leading change via active involvement at the “coal face”. Such a transition would improve morale and would be a move towards establishing an innovative learning culture within NHS organisations. A companion article provides the same service on improving hospital through‐put.

Originality/value

Some useful lessons for the Department of Health are presented.

Citation

Towill, D.R. (2008), "Leadership in the NHS: What can the Department of Health learn from Gerry Robinson – the programme?", Leadership in Health Services, Vol. 21 No. 3, pp. 151-157. https://doi.org/10.1108/17511870810892985